Our History - About | Heidelberg Materials
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History

For more than a century, we’ve been supplying cement, aggregates, ready mixed concrete, asphalt and other building materials to markets throughout North America. Today, as a part of Heidelberg Materials, our reach and capabilities are more extensive than ever, and our brightest days are still ahead.

Image of 1897

1897

Lehigh Cement Company began as a single-mill operation in Ormrod, Pennsylvania, producing Portland cement. As the demand for concrete increased in the early 1900’s, the company thrived. Over the years, a strategy of acquisitions, modernization and increased productivity propelled the company to the position of one of North America’s leading providers of cement and construction materials.

Image of 1964

1964

Hanson Trust was formed in 1964 by James Hanson and Gordon White. It rapidly grew by acquisition and became a multinational concern with interests in chemicals, construction, energy, tobacco and other industries. Over the years, Hanson shifted its focus to construction materials and sold its non-core business. By 2006 Hanson had become the world’s largest producer of aggregates.

image of Headquarters

1977

Heidelberg Cement, one of the world’s leading producers of cement and ready mixed concrete, established a presence in the United States with the acquisition of the Lehigh Cement Company.

image of inland cement in 1993

1993

In 1993, Heidelberg Cement acquired its Canadian operations. The U.S. and Canadian businesses become the company's Area North America.

image of hanson aggregates 2007

2007

Heidelberg Cement acquired Hanson PLC in 2007, creating a multi-national provider of cement, aggregates, ready mixed concrete and other construction materials.

Essroc Picton Cement Plant

2016

In 2016, Heidelberg Cement completed the acquisition of Italcementi. In North America, Essroc, a subsidiary of Italcementi that operated cement, ready mixed concrete and aggregate facilities, was integrated into the Lehigh Hanson businesses.

Aggregates being loaded in quarry

2023

Lehigh Hanson becomes Heidelberg Materials in North America. In 2023 the company is uniting the entire North American family of brands under this new banner while remaining focused on what we do best: heavy building materials. The rebrand reflects a much broader and innovative approach to serving customers and leading the industry in sustainability and digital solutions.